Newcastle’s January signing Moussa Sissoko has spoken to L’Equipe about his childhood love for Arsenal, watching the great French players of the Invincibles side and dreaming of playing at Highbury himself.

The midfielder has become the latest player to move to St James’ Park from Ligue 1, where there has recently become a strong French contingent. He has impressed in his first few games in the Premier League, but it seems his true loyalty may lie with the Gunners.

“When I was little the Arsenal team with all the French players made a mark on me. Pires, [Sylvain] Wiltord, Henry, Vieira… That team made me dream. They won everything.

“I loved Thierry Henry and especially Patrick Vieira, who played the same position as me. He had unbelievable power! He ran through the entire pitch with the ball at his feet. In midfield, he was the boss.

“And then there was Highbury with the fans so close to the pitch. I would have liked to play there!”

If he continues to impress in England there’s no doubt Arsenal will be linked with him at some point. And how nice it would be to have a true fan playing for the team!